Friday, June 20, 2014

Proclaiming and Preaching

Soon afterwards, He began going around from one city and village to another, proclaiming and preaching the kingdom of God. The twelve were with Him, (Luke 8:1 NASB)

The events of the previous chapter took place in Capernaum (the healing of the centurion's servant) and in Nain. This chapter begins with the description of His "tour of cities". Soon after the dinner at Simon's house, Jesus began to travel (on foot) from one city and village to another, in order to proclaim and preach the Kingdom of God to them. He was accompanied by His twelve apostles, as well as some others we will consider later.

When we read that He was both proclaiming and preaching, we may well say, "Oh, He was preaching and preaching," but two different words are used here. The word translated as "proclaiming" is kēryssō and indicates a formal proclamation with authority. It is the equivalent of a king's herald reading a proclamation of law to which adherence is mandatory. What a perfect description of the work of Jesus, who, as the Son of God, was speaking on behalf of the King of Kings and Lord of Lords! His words may have been cushioned with kindness, but they were no less authoritative, and no more optional, than the edicts of King Herod himself.

The word translated as "preaching" is euaggelizōand simply means to tell the good news. It comes from a root word meaning to do good (as in a charitable act) or to prosper. This prospering is not necessarily a financial prospering, but a prospering of well being.

Putting it all together gives us an eye-opening truth. Jesus traveled from city to village to give the good news straight from Almighty God. His words were instructions on how to live a good life and how to prosper in well being. Obedience was not optional.

Make no mistake about it. Obedience is still not optional. The very wonderful news is that obedience to the teachings of Christ is to our benefit, not our detriment. Not only does obedience yield an eternal reward, it makes life better now.

Do you want a better life? Do you want peace and freedom for yourself and your loved ones? Turn to the words of Jesus, and simply obey. You will be so glad you did.

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Link to last night's post: http://leannahollis.blogspot.com/2014/06/on-life-and-light.html